Document Verification vs Self-Declaration

When you add data to a passport — whether it is a supply chain actor, a carbon footprint figure, or a recycled content percentage — you choose a verification level: self-declared or document-verified. This article explains the difference and why it matters.

Self-declared

Self-declared means you are entering the data based on your own records, internal documentation, or supplier communications. No supporting document is uploaded to DPP Cloud. You are attesting that the information is accurate.

Self-declared data is accepted by DPP Cloud and meets the minimum requirements for passport activation and registry submission. However, it results in a lower compliance strength score.

Document-verified

Document-verified means you have uploaded a supporting document to DPP Cloud that substantiates the declared data. Accepted documents include:

• Third-party audit certificates — from accredited bodies such as TÜV, SGS, Bureau Veritas, or Intertek.
• LCA reports — lifecycle assessment reports for carbon footprint verification.
• RMI audit certificates — Responsible Minerals Initiative audit reports for supply chain due diligence.
• Conflict minerals declarations — CMRT (Conflict Minerals Reporting Template) or equivalent.
• Supplier certificates — certificates from supply chain partners confirming recycled content, material origin, or processing standards.
• ISO certification copies — ISO 14001, ISO 14064, or other relevant management system certificates.

Document-verified data receives a higher compliance strength score. Customs authorities and market surveillance bodies are more likely to accept a passport with document-verified data at face value.

How verification affects compliance strength

DPP Cloud calculates a compliance strength score for every passport based on four levels:

Which approach to use

For initial passport creation, self-declared data is acceptable. Most manufacturers start by entering data they have readily available and upgrade to document-verified as audit certificates and LCA reports become available.

If you are a manufacturer selling to large automotive OEMs or importers with strict compliance requirements, aim for STRONG or VERIFIED from the start. These customers will check your compliance strength on the public viewer.